Northampton, UK – Nigerian athlete Tony Adebayo Adesanya claimed the World Adaptive Boxing Championship belt in the 54kg flyweight division after defeating Britain’s Danny Higgins at the Market Harborough Leisure Centre in Northampton on 30 August 2025.
Adesanya, who has used a wheelchair for most of his life, has spent eight years promoting adaptive boxing across Africa while training in South Africa. Known for his calm approach and sharp reflexes, he controlled the fight’s pace and kept Higgins on the defensive to secure the judges’ decision.
The Nigerian said the victory proved that perceived limitations can be overcome. “I am happy that I am able to achieve what people believe is not possible. I found my way to South Africa, where I trained for eight years, and the dream came through,” he said.
Adesanya acknowledged the support of his South African club and his head coach, Luke Lamprecht, crediting them for providing opportunities that helped him succeed while representing Nigeria. “I fly the Nigerian flag, but I must mention South Africa too because what I achieve today is through my club there,” he said.
He added that the sport offered proof that disability does not define one’s potential. “Money is not involved, but I am able to prove to the world that there is life in disability and everything is possible,” he said.
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